Selling the House During a Divorce in Utah: Why Waiting Could Cost You Everything

Divorce is difficult. But deciding what happens to the house doesn’t have to destroy your credit, finances, or future.

In my experience as a Certified Divorce Real Estate Specialist (RCS-D™), the biggest mistake divorcing couples make is waiting too long to sell the house — or letting one person stay behind “just for now.”

That decision can quickly backfire — and here’s why…

🚨 Why You Should Sell the House ASAP

I’ve seen it again and again:

• One spouse stays in the home

• Mortgage payments get missed

• Both spouse's credit gets damaged

• Equity vanishes during delays or disputes

Even worse, some people try to “be nice” and let their ex keep the home — only to find out years later they’re still legally tied to the mortgage… and their credit is wrecked.

The cleanest, safest option?

Sell the house quickly and split the proceeds.

💳 Divorce and Credit Damage: A Hidden Threat

Judges don’t notify mortgage companies.

Your divorce decree won’t remove you from a loan.

And if one person stops paying — you both get hurt.

If you co-own a house, you’re both legally responsible.

No matter what your attorney says.

🧠 Why Using a Friend or General Agent is Risky

This isn’t a typical home sale. Only 1% of agents have success with these type of listings.  Why? They are not certified to handle divorce listings — and most don’t understand:

• Court timelines

• Mortgage liability

• Legal orders and title complications

• Neutral communication with opposing spouses

This is why I pursued the RCS-D™ certification — to protect clients like you and to support legal professionals with a specialized system.

💼 Important Financial Strategy Most Couples Miss

Here’s something almost no one talks about — but it could save your future:

🎯 It’s often smarter for both spouses to

purchase new homes before the divorce is final.

Why?

Because once the divorce is finalized:

• The alimony payer’s DTI (debt-to-income ratio) spikes

• That person may no longer qualify for a home loan

• Credit damage from delays or missed payments may already be in motion

If both spouses buy their next property before alimony is ordered and before title/mortgage complications lock them out, they often:

• Lock in better rates

• Qualify for higher purchase power

• Avoid emotional power struggles later

I work directly with lenders and divorce attorneys to help you time it right and protect both sides financially.

⚖️ How I Help Divorcing Clients and Attorneys

As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Specialist:

• I assist with valuation, equity splits, and property timelines

• Communicate neutrally with both parties and attorneys

• Help prevent financial sabotage and miscommunication

• Support lenders with required documentation

• Typically close divorce-related sales in 30–60 days

🛑 If You’re Thinking About Letting Your Ex Stay in the Home…

Don’t. Unless the loan is refinanced and your name is removed, you’re still 100% responsible.

If your ex misses a payment, it affects your:

• Credit

• Loan eligibility

• Peace of mind

This is why you need a specialist — not a well-meaning family friend with a license.

📍 What to Do Next:

If you’re going through a divorce and own a home, don’t wait.

Let’s have a confidential conversation before mistakes are made.

🔹 Schedule a Private Consultation

435-327-5545

📘 Bonus: Download Our Free Guide

“What Happens to the House in a Divorce?”

Download our Free Guide

Troy Moultrie

Certified Divorce Real Estate Specialist | RCS-D™

Serving Southern & Northern Utah | Treasured Properties